Can you believe it? Junk-yard eyesores become gorgeous platters, jewelry boxes, and frames

BEFORE: Uhunzi artists use scrap metal, much of which is harvested from junked vehicles

Community Forklift is fortunate enough to host the work of Robert Warren this winter at the Green Gift Fair. Based in Silver Spring, MD, Warren has combined his knowledge of furniture design and manufacturing with a passion for environmental stewardship, an important concept he became intimate with while living in Kenya.

Because of a lack of sustainable timber options, Warren created an innovative business solution in partnership with his host community by seeking out recycled materials, the most abundant of which was scrap metal from worn-out vehicles. Through a labor-intensive design and manufacturing process, Warren and his colleagues continue to transform junk yard eyesores into art.

AFTER: The metal is turned into platters, candle holders, keychains, belt buckles, and many more great gift items.

Warren’s fair trade enterprise, Uhunzi, has gained international acclaim and his artistic talent has been featured in commissioned artwork and trophy awards for the United Nations, The Kenya Tourist Board, The Eco Tourism Society of Kenya, and The Geitz Foundation. You can find Warren’s artwork including jewelry boxes, platters, photo frames, and belts at the `Lift’s Green Gift Fair through December.

The Green Gift Fair runs 7 days a week through Dec. 29, and features the handiwork of over thirty organizations and individuals. In addition to items from Uhunzi, gift seekers will find an assortment of eco-friendly & affordable paintings, clothing, woodcrafts, toys, baby gear, beauty care products, candles, greeting cards, housewares and stained glass mosaics. Some of the artists will be sharing their skills with Forklift fans during free weekend workshops.